The Ancient Swedish Philosophy That IKEA Is Embracing For Home Decor In 2026

Whether you love a Saturday afternoon wandering around their warehouses (with a meatball lunch halfway) or you find self-assembly furniture the most frustrating thing in the world, there is no denying the impact IKEA has on our homes. It began in a small Swedish town in 1943 and is now the largest furniture retailer in the world, and even flatpack haters will probably have one or two of their products somewhere in their homes. Its influence on interior design is always relevant, and in 2026, it has shed light on an ancient Swedish philosophy called lagom living. This philosophy doesn't just impact the things you have in your space, but also how you feel in your space, and we think we all need a dose of it right now. 

In IKEA's 2026 style guide, they explored the idea of lagom, stating that it means "not too much, not too little". It's all about balance and moderation, but not in a stingy way. The balance it provides us with feeds contentment and helps us be joyful in what we have. There is an element of community and sharing with it, too. When we have what we need and avoid excess, we aren't taking from others. This energy is reflected in one theory of where the word comes from. Lagom may have evolved from the Viking expression 'laget om', which means "around the team". When it comes to interior design, lagom finds a balance between emptiness and clutter to create a relaxing living space that still has a touch of personality.

In their style guide, Ikea says that lagom can help you feel relaxed as soon as you enter your home. It allows your home to be calming and inviting, with small touches of character throughout. To bring lagom into your space, IKEA suggests using contrasting natural materials. Wood and bamboo furniture pieces can create that spa-like, warm feel, especially when paired with natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk. Rattan is also a great option for lagom style spaces, with Ikea showcasing beautiful rattan lampshades in their style guide. Designing your home with sustainable materials leans into the slow-living vibe that lagom aligns with, too, so keep eco-friendliness in mind when shopping for furniture and accessories. Opting for earthy colors, such as browns, beiges, and deep reds, can also promote the lagom feel in your space. It's all about tones that feel calming and quiet — not overwhelming.

In terms of accessories and decor, lagom doesn't mean you have to get rid of everything. However, if you have found the time to declutter, it may be helpful to go through your home and get rid of anything unnecessary. But remember — lagom is all about balance. Some trinkets and clutter are fine, especially if you have a sentimental connection to them. IKEA suggests adding plants as decor is a great way to embrace that relaxing lagom feel in your space. Place them around your home intentionally, allowing nature to flow freely. By curating your space in the lagom way, you can always find sanctuary in your home, no matter how stressful your day has been.